North Carolina Teacher Wins $100K on Wheel of Fortune

A sixth-grade language arts teacher from Taylorsville, North Carolina, just made game show history. Cory Earp became the first $100,000 winner of Wheel of Fortune’s 43rd season during the September 19 episode.

Known at school for his trademark tropical shirts, Earp swapped the classroom for the spotlight — and his sharp puzzle-solving skills didn’t disappoint. Facing fellow educators Alesha Davis of Chicago and BB Fisher of Tempe, Earp quickly built momentum by sweeping both Toss Ups and solving early puzzles.

Although Davis briefly took the lead with major wins, including a trip to France and school supplies, Earp stormed back by dominating the Triple Toss Ups and closing regular play with $26,450.

In the Bonus Round, he chose the category “What Are You Wearing?” and nailed the answer “Fancy Blazer” almost instantly. Host Ryan Seacrest revealed the $100,000 prize card, sending Earp’s total winnings to $126,450.

Overjoyed, the teacher hugged his mom and best friend, saying: “That’s crazy! I’m speechless.”